Trees a ‘threat’ in Killarney, warns councillor

Concern has been raised about the condition of trees along one of the main routes into Killarney, Co Kerry.

A call for a detailed examination of trees along the Deenagh River side of the Port Rd, opposite St Mary’s Cathedral, has been made by Cllr Michael Gleeson.

“Some are leaning dangerously over the footpath and road and look very fragile and threatening,” he said. “I am asking as a matter of urgency that these trees are inspected and those that appear in any way dubious should be promptly removed. Most certainly, all overhanging branches should be promptly removed,” he said.

Such an action would allow pedestrians to have a clear view of the river and would enhance the overall area, he maintained.

Some of the trees may have a disease, commonly known as honey fungus, which is a clear indication of root rot, he said.

Cllr Gleeson also felt that, prior to the abolition of the town council in May, the council and the relevant Government departments should consider removing all trees, shrubs and undergrowth between the roadside wall and the river.

Chopped-up wood could be given to the elderly through the St Vincent de Paul Society, he suggested.

The council has pruned some of the trees and is again examining the situation.

Meanwhile, upwards of 100 trees have been felled in Killarney National Park by recent storms, the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has confirmed.

Park staff have been busy since Christmas dealing with uprooted trees, but the ancient yew and oak woods — which are a feature of the 26,000-acre park — have, so far, escaped storm damage.

NPWS regional manager Pat Dawson said the number of trees falling victim to storms this winter in the park was “exceptional”, but no rare trees, except for one sweet chestnut, had been lost.

“Neither has there been any structural damage to roads, or other facilities, and nobody has been injured by a falling tree,” he added.